Hi, looks like a good forum here. I was given a 1988 300SD that broke its crank. Cruising down the highway one day, its appears to have just snapped. It broke on a bit of an angle it appears and will still kind of run, but barely. A knowledgeable mechanic diagnosed the problem after dropping the transmission. I couldn't let this car go to the wrecker because its such a nice machine. I have repaired several cars before, although they were mostly Toyotas and all gasoline engines. I know how diesel works, but I am not nearly as familiar with it. I have several questions you may be able to help me with.

My first question, where I can I find some literature on the Mercedes diesel engines? I'd like to have the knowledge to ask reasonable and informed questions.

Second, are there any part sources you have found that were particularly good? I've found a replacement engine for $2000 but all the wrecker will give me is a compression test (and only if I put down a deposit first). I am located in Vancouver, Canada and the wrecker I spoke with was Ace German in Burnaby. I'd be interested in hearing about good wreckers along the West Coast. I have decided I'd like to drop in a new engine, and then rebuild the old one after assessing the damage done when the crank broke.

Thirdly, I have a Haynes manual with the outline for removing and replacing an engine, but that's about it. Are there any write ups or books which would be a service?

Much appreciated.

Matt

 

Pardon me, its a 1985. The link posted goes to a page where all the links are broken, which is unfortunate because it looks like a good site.

 

Brilliant, that's a huge help. I've found an engine for $1500 with a 3 month warranty close to where I live. I will take a look at it soon.

 

3 months is bogus, same with the price. I paid $1000 shipped for an engine with a 3 month warranty. After complaining they bumped it up to half a year.